As Nigerians begin the 10-day hunger protest Thursday, the safety of everyone during protests remains essential.
The protest, scheduled to be held from August 1-10 across the 36 states, and the Federal Capital Territory, seeks to force the government to address the harsh economic realities afflicting the populace.
However, engaging in any protest requires some preparations. If you are planning to join the protest, you can follow these tips to reduce harm:
Before going on protest
- Know your health status. If you know you are not strong enough to stand, walk for long, or chant, please stay at home.
- Let someone you trust know where you are going.
- Ensure that you know your rights when it comes to getting stopped by police or the military.
- Familiarise yourself with all possible routes throughout the protest.
Keep your identity card with you.
Items to carry with you
- Water to ensure that you stay hydrated always
- Sports caps to help flush eyes if there is exposure to tear gas
- Sunglasses
- Face mask
- Hand sanitizer
- First aid kit
- Do not forget your inhaler if you are asthmatic
- Bring along some snacks
- Hat to protect from the sun and help cover your face
- You should consider dressing in long sleeves (or bring an outer layer) and wear pants to protect your skin from chemical agents such as tear gas or pepper spray.
- Wear comfortable, protective shoes.
- Do not wear contact lenses, eye makeup, or jewelry. Contact lenses can trap tear gas in your eyes, and jewelry may cause discomfort.
- Fully charge your phone, and consider bringing your power bank
While protesting
- Stay focused and aware of your surroundings at all times.
- Stay hydrated by frequently drinking water.
- Enable a passcode on your phone.
- Do not share any images of protesters on social media without their permission
- If your eyes are exposed to pepper spray or tear gas, do not rub them; blinking and rinsing are most effective; slant sideways and rinse each eye with water.
After the protest
- Change your clothes as soon as possible, and shower
- Take care of yourself, mentally, physically, and emotionally.
- Recharge by eating a balanced diet
